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The League's Local Leaders of Tomorrow: 7th Grade Essay Contest invites all Kansas students enrolled in 7th grade during the 2024-25 school year to participate in a fun civic education exercise to demonstrate their knowledge of local government. This contest is eligible as a Classroom Based Assessment (CBA) if it fulfills all the requirements of the Kansas State Department of Education, History, Government, and Social Studies, Classroom-Based Assessment. Click this link for further information regarding the Kansas State Department of Education, History Government, and Social Studies, Classroom Based Assessment.

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Local Leaders of Tomorrow: 7th Grade Essay Contest

2025-26 Compelling Question to Answer:

What is a challenge your city/school is facing, and how would you help fix it?

CONTEST RULES

Who: All Kansas students enrolled in the 7th grade during the 2025-26 school year. Teachers, please note that this contest is eligible as a Classroom Based Assessment (CBA) based on the guidelines above.

What: Each student may submit one essay responding to the compelling question. Please aim to write your essay within a 500-word limit. Slight overages, however, will be accepted if needed to ensure effective expression of ideas. Please prioritize clarity and conciseness in your writing.

When: Essays accepted until March 6, 2026. 

Where: Essays must be submitted via Google Form below.

How: Essays will be evaluated based on the Kansas State Department of Education, History Government, and Social Studies, Classroom Based Assessment Middle School Level Rubric available here.

Why: Five regional winners receive a cash prize of $125. The sixth regional winner will represent the state of Kansas and receive a $250 cash prize. Winning essays will be published in the  Kansas Government Journal. Winners and their teacher are invited to attend a special ceremony to be held in Topeka in May 2026.

In an effort to encourage youth engagement, the League reserves the right to republish the essays and pictures of each student to connect Kansas youth in their work. 

Please review the submission instructions below before submitting your essay via the Google Form. If you have questions, contact Tami Martin via e-mail or phone 785-354-9565.

• Submit your essay via this link or by clicking on the image below!

For the parents/guardians of the winners, please complete the following:

W-9 Form to receive the the award check

Photo Release Form to permit us to use photos of your child in social media/publications.

Past Winners

2025 Regional Essay Winners (article from Kansas Government Journal)

2025 Regional Essay Winners (press release)

2024 Regional Essay Winners (article from Kansas Government Journal)

2024 Regional Essay Winners (press release)

2023 Regional Essay Winners (article from Kansas Government Journal)

2023 Regional Essay Winners (press release)